Stanislawa Smolen

SMOLEN, Stanislawa Victoria
May 7, 1943 - January 17, 2015

It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of our Mother, Stanislawa, at home, with her family by her side. She was predeceased by her loving husband, Antoni Smolen, in 1997 and her sister, Wladyslawa Glinka, in 2012. Stanislawa is survived by her daughters, Marzena, Leslaw; Dorota, Zbigniew; and grandchildren Emilie and Nickolas. As well as, extended family here in Canada and Poland. Born in Krakow, Poland, into the Bialas family; Stanislawa married Zdzislaw Balicki in 1963 and worked as a bookkeeper for the Polish National Railways until moving to Canada in 1981. She joined her husband and settled down in Vancouver, working at the Sylvia Hotel until her retirement in 1995. Stanislawa had many passions and interests, but the most dear to her heart was her family, friends and the Polish community. She was an unusually gifted person and a passionate cook. She dedicated numerous years volunteering at the Polish 'Zgoda' Hall during her working career and later, into her retirement years. She joined various committees within Zgoda, and it was there, that she met her new love, Antoni. They lived their years together in Burnaby, BC, enjoying life to its fullest. Her departure will create a huge void in our hearts and lives; that will be difficult to fill. Mom's unconditional love is her greatest legacy that will stay with us forever. Prayers and Viewing will be held at St. Casmir's Parish on Wednesday, January 28 between 7-8 pm. Funeral Mass will be held at St. Casmir's Catholic Parish, 1187 Inverness, Vancouver, BC on Thursday, January 29, 2015 at 11 am. Interment to follow at Mountain View Cemetery. Donations, in her name and memory, can be made to the BC Cancer Foundation.